Daija Pruitt began her varsity adventure at Carmel when she made her debut as a sophomore two years ago.
A quiet, reserved person, Pruitt played through her nerves and displayed a toughness, power and aggressiveness on the court that more than justified coach Kelly Perz’s decision to elevate her to varsity play.
As a junior, she averaged team bests of nine points and nearly nine rebounds for the Corsairs, who finished 10-17 (3-4 East Suburban Catholic Conference).
One of three returning starters, Pruitt is Carmel’s best talent and the player most likely to alter the fortunes of a game.
“She has always just been a scorer,” Perz said. “Daija was our leading scorer and rebounder last year. Now I have asked her to have more of a voice off the court. Already this season I see that happening.”
Carmel opened its season Monday at the Mundelein Thanksgiving tournament.
The Corsairs are young, and Perz said two freshmen and two sophomores are part of the rotation. The youth only accentuates the importance of Pruitt.
At 5-foot-10, Pruitt blends good size with superb instincts and a toughness around the basket.
“Because I’m more of a post player than a wing, I know that I have to go out every game and play hard,” Pruitt said. “That’s what gives me the most pleasure, being out there and playing, just working with the team and (experiencing) the joy of playing.”
More Top Picks Best Communication Boards For Nonverbal Autism
In her seventh year directing the program, Perz said the Corsairs’ competitiveness makes up for a lack of outstanding athleticism or elite individual players. She knows if the team is going to make strides this year, it has to come at the offensive end.
“Defensively we have been able to hold teams,” Perz said. “Our biggest struggle has been scoring points. Our goal is to increase scoring.
“The girls came in the best shape they have come in since I have been the coach. I feel we are in much better shape to start the season.”
Pruitt said her three years starting on the varsity squad came with a rapid learning curve. The best players are on the court year-round, and she realized she had to take extra time to refine and develop her skills. She worked hard before the start of practice to extend her range on her jump shot to make her even more dangerous near the paint.
“Over the summer we did a lot of training, and that has helped a lot with my performance,” Pruitt said. “The team bonded and played a lot together over the summer. I think it’s going to make a difference. I am really excited about playing with my teammates and hopefully getting more victories. We can never give up on anything and play our roles.”
Her commitment and desire to improve has set the tone.
“She wants the team to be successful, especially being a senior now,” Perz said. “I know she wants to be successful. She is really spreading her wings as far as leadership.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press